Windows

Glass blocks: Improve light entry and create open space

Glass blocks also known as glass bricks first emerged in the 1900s used by manufacturing plants to provide natural lighting in a bid to scale down on lighting costs.

Currently, glass blocks have evolved for both commercial and domestic construction purposes, whilst they’re treasured for their light saving properties. Glass blocks basically have the characteristic of attracting more natural lighting whilst maintaining visual obscurity. One may argue that glass is brittle and therefor if used as a wall material, it would rather compromise on the security aspect when compared to formidable building materials such as concrete bricks or steel panels. That’s a valid point but to address these doubts, glass wall blocks are available depending on the clients use. If they need strong blocks then they can purchase solid glass blocks and if the purpose is not really security oriented then they can opt for the hollow glass blocks. So there are plenty of options.

As the phenomenon of using glass bricks continues to catch on in the architectural industry, it is important to discuss the advantages of using glass blocks for rooms with no windows. As such, and as already noted above, the blocks let in natural light while maintaining privacy – this can be used in saving lighting costs during the day in both homes and offices. As opposed to windows, the glass blocks act better as noise filters and heat resisters giving the inner room a quiet, serene and somewhat cool environment. Glass bricks can also be used in a larger area without infringing on the structural integrity of the building. Despite these key advantages, glass blocks are also available in a wide array of designs and finfishes. So even when you know the size and depth of the glass bricks you require, you then have a choice between tints, patterns, obscurity, security and heat resistance!